Turkish Bath Attire: Side Hamam Clothing Guide
What to wear for a Turkish bath? We walk you through swimwear, peshtemal, slippers and what to bring for a hamam experience in Side, step by step.
Short answer to "What to wear for a Turkish bath": Wear your swimsuit or bikini under your clothes, and you'll usually keep it on in the hamam. You'll generally be wrapped in a peshtemal. Bring non-slip slippers, a hair tie and a light cover-up to put on when you leave. Hamam programs in Side last about 1.5 hours and often include hotel transfer.
What to wear in a Turkish hamam?
The hamam is a hot, humid environment. Your body will be in contact with water during the kese and foam massage. That's why your choice of clothing should be practical.
- Women: Bikini bottoms or a one-piece swimsuit. You may also wear the top if the facility allows it. Rules on the top can vary by facility, so follow the staff's instructions.
- Men: Swim-style trunks or board shorts you'll be comfortable in inside the hamam.
- Peshtemal: Hamams usually provide a thin cotton peshtemal. Ask your agency when booking whether you need to bring your own peshtemal.
Don't enter the hamam in regular underwear. It becomes uncomfortable when wet and is hard to dry. A swimsuit is the most suitable choice for this.
What should I bring with me?
Most things are available at the facility, but this short list will help you feel comfortable:
- Spare underwear and dry clothes: You won't want to step outside in a wet swimsuit.
- Slippers: Floors can be wet and slippery. If the facility doesn't provide them, bring your own slippers.
- Hair tie or clip: Long hair easily loosens in heat and water.
- A light shawl or thin cardigan: Useful in months like October, when evenings cool down, right after leaving the hot hamam.
- Water: Drinking water in the heat of the hamam feels good. The facility may offer water, but still keep a small bottle with you.
What is better not to take to the hamam?
- Valuable jewelry: Hot metal can be uncomfortable on your skin. It's also easy to lose in a wet environment. Leave rings, necklaces and earrings at your hotel.
- Phone and camera: Moisture and steam aren't good for electronic devices. For privacy reasons too, taking photos inside the hamam is generally not welcome.
- Heavy makeup and strong perfume: You'll sweat and come into contact with water, so they're unnecessary.
- Freshly shaved or epilated, sensitive skin: Your skin may be sensitive during the kese. If you feel any discomfort, tell your attendant.
How does the hamam experience go in Side?
The Turkish hamam with kese peeling, foam massage and transfer program in Side Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer lasts about 1.5 hours. The experience begins with the sauna, followed by kese peeling and foam massage. This gives you a short, complete program that's ideal for slowing down after a hot day.
Don't eat a heavy meal before the hamam. Going on an empty stomach isn't good either, so a light snack is enough. If you feel dizzy in the heat, let the attendant know and rest. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, pregnancy or a similar condition, it's a good idea to consult your doctor before taking part.
What are the options if you're staying in Alanya?
If you're staying in Alanya, a little way from Side, these two programs also suit you:
- Women-only Turkish bath: Alanya: Turkish Bath for Womenonly with Scrub and Foam Massage A women-only program in Alanya lasting about 2.5 hours. Includes kese and foam massage. This program suits you if you don't want to feel uncomfortable wearing a swimsuit or bikini and are looking for a calm, private setting.
- Hamam and spa experience: Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer A program of about 2 hours with transfer. Suited to those who want to combine the classic hamam ritual with a spa.
If you think you won't feel comfortable in a mixed hamam, be sure to check with your agency how the sections are separated before booking.
What to wear and do after the hamam?
When you leave the hamam, your body will be warm and relaxed. So choose comfortable, breathable clothes. Linen trousers, a cotton T-shirt or a light dress work well. In October, daytime in Side can still be mild, but you may feel a chill in the evenings. Check the weather forecast before your trip.
Drink some water when you leave, and don't go straight out into the cool air with wet hair. Ending your day with a relaxed dinner or a short walk is a nice way to finish. It's best not to schedule anything strenuous after the hamam.
How do I make a booking?
Choose the program on TurB2C, then enter the date and number of people. When you enter your hotel name, the details are passed to the agency for transfer arrangements. Times and content may change, so check up-to-date information before your visit. If you have questions about clothing, you can ask the local agency when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do you enter a Turkish hamam naked?
No. In most tourist hamams, a swimsuit or bikini is worn and a peshtemal is wrapped over it. Practices can vary by facility, so follow the staff's instructions.
Should I bring my own towel to the hamam?
Usually the peshtemal and towel are provided by the facility. Confirm with your agency when booking for exact information.
Should I eat before the hamam?
Avoid a heavy meal, but don't go hungry either. Eating something light and drinking enough water is best.
Can I use glasses, contact lenses and a phone in the hamam?
Due to the heat and humidity, it's more practical to leave glasses and your phone in the changing area. If you wear contact lenses, decide based on whether they will bother you.
